New socket caters for iPad fans

The Elite Socket is a plug-and-play product that allows users to mount, remove and relocate iPads and iPods. Photo / Supplied

The popularity of devices such as the iPad and iPhone has seen Kiwi accessory and mounting-systems manufacturer Tallon Systems release an Elite Socket unit.

The unit will come complete with USB and 12V power connections and will be complemented by the release of the Tallon iPad Mount.

Tallon Systems general manager Duncan Good says the new Elite Socket is a plug-and-play product that allows users to mount, remove and relocate items that need power as well as data to function.

"Thanks to our partnership with United States company Ram Mount, any model of the widely popular iPad or iPhone can be easily attached to the Tallon Elite Socket," says Good.

"It will also provide power to the device using the USB-port charger and the ability to communicate with other electronic devices on board such as computers, stereos and DVD players."

Good said there were high levels of interest in the Elite Socket and iPad Mount at a recent product pre-release at the Sanctuary Cove Boat Show in May, much of it fuelled by the popularity of marine iPad applications such as that offered by Navionics.

"The advent of sophisticated mapping applications like the Navionics app for iPad means people are taking their devices wherever they go, including out on the boat," says Good.

"And this mount will work just as well in a vehicle or at home."

The Elite Socket will be launched officially at the Sydney Boat Show next month and will retail for $69.95. The iPad mount will have a retail price of $109.95.